Bicycle dealer alarmed: Repair bonus has to go back immediately!

Bicycle dealer alarmed: Repair bonus has to go back immediately!

Österreich - Sports and bicycle retailers in Austria is disappointed with the short-term suspension of the repair bonus by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism (BMLUK). This decision is regarded as a setback for sustainable mobility and traffic safety, since the bonus plays a key role for inpatient specialist retailers. He also supports low -income households in keeping their bicycles in a traffic -safe manner. Dr. Michael Schineis, Presidium spokesman for the VSSÖ, describes that numerous customers were waiting for the repair bonus for repairs of bicycles or e-bikes after the announcement of the suspension.

With a view to the importance of the repair bonus, it becomes clear that safety -relevant work is required in 95 percent of all service cases, such as exchanging brake pads or adjusting circuits. The regular maintenance, especially for children's bicycles and commuters: indoor wheels, is crucial for the traffic and the safety of the users. The VSSÖ therefore calls for a rapid resumption of the repair bonus to increase traffic safety and to keep mobility affordable for everyone.

effects on the market and the economy

The total turnover with bicycles has exceeded the billion mark, which underlines the economic relevance of the sector. Over 50 percent of e-bikes in Austria are sold through the sports trade. Workshops play a central role in this growth because they are equipped with the latest technology and specialized specialists. The suspension of the repair bonus is therefore not only regarded as a negative signal for the mobility transition, but also as a threat to regional businesses.

according to Austria.gv.at is currently exposed to the repair bonus. However, the resumption of the funding program is planned for this year, which offers many hope for restoring the support of the repairs of bicycles and electronics equipment. Since April 2022, citizens in Austria have been given the opportunity to apply for a repair bon, which covers 50 percent of the gross costs that are capable of funding, but a maximum of 200 euros per repair and 30 euros for cost estimates.

The financing of the repair bonus is carried out by the EU financing and construction fund "Next Generation EU", which provides a total of 130 million euros by 2026, supplemented by 124 million euros from national funds. When resuming the repair bonus, it is also important to note that from September 2024 the bonus will also be usable for bicycles. This step could make a decisive contribution to further promoting repair and maintenance services and ensuring traffic safety for all users.

The VSSÖ appeals to the decision -makers, the importance of the repair bonus for the mobility turn, the economic stability of specialist trade and traffic safety in Austria and to work for the rapid resumption of the program.